While the runways for Spring/Summer 2018 showcased inclusive casts and activist messaging, another theme ran through the collections: happiness. Perhaps in reaction to a tumultuous political year, the dominant trend of the season was clothes and accessories that make you feel good – be they candy-colored chiffon gowns, rainbow-striped blousons, or romantic peasant frocks. The mood for Spring/Summer 2018 is light, jovial, and full of life, and clothes that aren’t delivering on this message are better resigned to the back of your closet.
While we have covered the season’s biggest sartorial trends, there is another way to hone your look. Of-the-moment brands like Attico, Ganni, and Zimmerman placed their focus on elements that are imbued with movement – like fringe and feathers – as well as romantic details like floral blossom prints, ruching, and sheer overlays. Chances are you already own pieces that reflect these details, so explore your options below and make a mental checklist of what to look for as you refine your spring/summer wardrobe.
Ruching
This flattering detail helps emphasize the silhouette, while its raised texture also helps disguise problem areas. We call that a win-win.
Fringe
Human beings naturally respond to the strongest stimulus in their environment, which is why a fully fringed statement piece – like the ones below – is all but guaranteed to turn heads.
Feathers
This light, breezy detail is the key to boosting the elegance and style of any type of ensemble, whether you wear it head-to-toe à la Salvatore Ferragamo or let it accent your look like Delpozo.
Sheer Overlays
This lightweight method of layering can also be used to amplify the artistry of your look, especially in cases where the sheer overlay is embroidered or printed.
Romantic Florals
Florals? For Spring? Of course! This one is a no-brainer. We especially loved how brands like Louis Vuitton and Zimmerman used florals to boost the romance factor of poet blouses and peasant frocks.
Plastic
If you ask us, plastic footwear sounds like torture, but we can definitely get behind rain slickers and bubble dresses made from plasticine fabrics.
Day Sequins
Sequins are typically associated with eveningwear and special occasions, but for Spring/Summer 2018, designers are debuting bright, cheerful sequined looks for day – and we couldn’t love that more.
